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Before you start

  • Any mobile phone with GSM connectivity (no smartphone or data plan needed)
  • Your phone number registered with a local mobile network
  • The USSD service code for your programme — ask your programme operator or field agent if you are unsure

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What this guide does

This guide explains how to access IXO services through USSD menus on a basic mobile phone. USSD lets you dial a short code and navigate menus using number keys — similar to checking your airtime balance. Through USSD you can register your identity, manage your account, report activities, and access digital vouchers — all without a smartphone or internet connection.

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Step 1 — Dial the service code

On your mobile phone, open the keypad and dial the USSD service code provided by your programme, then press the call button. 
*1234#  [CALL]
The service code varies by programme and country. Your field agent or programme operator will confirm the correct code for your area. After dialling you will see the main menu on your phone screen within a few seconds.

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Step 2 — Navigate the menus

Use the number keys to select options and confirm with the call or send button. Use 0 to go back to the previous menu and * to exit the session. The main menu typically includes options to:
  • Learn more about the programme
  • Access your account
  • Report an activity
  • Check your status or balance
Each menu screen shows the available options and a prompt for your input.

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Step 3 — Create your account

If this is your first time, select the account creation option from the main menu. You will be asked to:
  1. Enter your name
  2. Choose a PIN (kept private — do not share it)
  3. Confirm your PIN
Once complete, the system creates your digital identity and account on the IXO network. You will receive a confirmation message on screen.
Keep your PIN private. Programme staff will never ask for your PIN.

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Step 4 — Report an activity or check your status

After creating your account, you can return at any time to:
  • Report an activity (such as using a clean cooking device)
  • Check your account balance or credential status
  • Access a digital voucher
Select the relevant option from the main menu, follow the prompts, and confirm with your PIN when asked.

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Troubleshooting

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The menu does not appear after dialling

  • Check that you have GSM network coverage
  • Try again after a few seconds — USSD sessions can be delayed on congested networks
  • Confirm the service code with your programme operator

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The session ended before I finished

USSD sessions time out after a period of inactivity (typically 30 to 60 seconds depending on your network). Dial the code again to start a new session. Your account data is saved.

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I forgot my PIN

Contact your programme operator or field agent. They can assist with account recovery through your registered phone number.

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I see an error message

If you see “Service temporarily unavailable”, the server may be briefly offline. Try again after a few minutes. If the problem persists, contact your programme operator.

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Next steps

IXO USSD gateway overview

Learn how the USSD gateway works for operators and developers.